The arrival of the first four locomotives from the Compagnie du TransGuinéen (CTG) marks a major step forward in Guinea’s ambitious Simandou 2040 Program, a government initiative aimed at transforming the country’s mineral wealth into a driver for sustainable development.
The locomotives were officially received on Sunday, September 28, 2025, with the first train christened “KŌMA,” after President’s home village, while the remaining three were named after villages of project leaders involved in the program.
Each train will ultimately consist of two locomotives and 100 wagons, part of a planned fleet of 143 locomotives and more than 7,000 wagons.
The railway is expected to transport 120 million tonnes of iron ore over two years through the Port of Morebayah, while also carrying passengers and goods across Guinea’s four natural regions.
The Simandou 2040 Program, launched by the Guinean government, seeks to harness mineral resources while promoting sustainable development.
In February, KPMG presented the program’s first sectoral assessments, identifying fourteen priority areas including industry, infrastructure, agriculture, and technology. A sovereign wealth fund will also be created to finance these projects and enhance local value creation.
Officials and international partners gathered for the locomotive reception ceremony, underscoring the project’s strategic and diplomatic significance.
The program is expected to generate thousands of jobs, modernize transport infrastructure, and position Guinea as a model of economic integration and sustainable growth in West Africa.
Valued at $20 billion, the Simandou 2040 Program centres on the development of the country’s vast iron ore reserves, the construction of a 650-kilometer railway, and a deep-water port, promising to transform Guinea’s economy and strengthen its regional influence.
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